The Hour of Death c. 16th century

Editor: Sebald Beham's "The Hour of Death," made around 1540, depicts a startling scene. I'm struck by the contrast between the opulent setting and the grim reaper figure. What can you tell me about the symbols at play here? Curator: Notice how the hourglass is positioned directly above the woman’s head, its sands nearly run out? This isn't just about mortality; it speaks to the transience of beauty and earthly pleasures. Beham uses death as a mirror, reflecting cultural anxieties around the body and morality. How does that resonate with you? Editor: It's unsettling, but also a powerful reminder of life's fleeting nature. The way he uses the objects to give us a moral lesson is very moving. Curator: Absolutely. It's a potent reminder that even in moments of indulgence, we carry within us the consciousness of our own mortality.